A healthy opportunity

I have just recently moved to Washington from the Midwest in pursuance of work and a change of scenery from the flat cornfields I am used to. In my mind, I pictured Washington as a haven for adventure and beautiful landscapes.

However, the reality of the situation is that this incredible state and all of the amazing cities, forests, wildlife and people living here are facing a monumental problem. Plastic bags and bottles fill the streets of Seattle. Foam coolers and candy bar wrappers litter the hiking trails. Our coastline and waterways are polluted with more forms of plastic than most people could ever imagine. We are facing a real problem, but luckily Senate Bill 6213 is a solution.

On February 9th, 2020, Jim Camden wrote in his article, “RIP to these Washington state legislative bills,” “The state won’t have a blanket ban on single-use plastic straws or Styrofoam containers, although it could put restrictions on some plastic items associated with food services.” Unfortunately, this is a misleading statement. Senate Bill 6213, calling for the removal of single-use polystyrene products from food-service industries statewide, is very much alive and has just passed its way through the Senate with the support from both decision makers in office and the constituents they represent.

Being aware of the issue and acting on that issue are two very different things. Support Senate Bill 6213 and join the fight in saving our wildlife, environment and health.

Connor Redfern

Renton